Seemor
SUKI DESUA-Worth Trying
217 E 85th St, New York, NY 10028
· Japanese restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (232 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Cozy UES kaisendon counter serving fresh fish bowls with a fun hot dashi finish; great value for NYC if you can handle tight seating and occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Suki Desu earns its A- grade through exceptional food quality anchored by fresh fish and distinctive hot dashi finishing, paired with attentive service that enhances the experience. Tight, dimly lit seating and occasional consistency variation prevent grade A territory, though strong value and loyal following position it as a competitive neighborhood favorite on the UES.
Restaurant Summary
A narrow UES counter where bowls gleam and steam, SUKI DESU feels cozy and intimate more than spacious. Diners praise the fresh fish and the little ceremony when hot dashi turns your rice into a second act. One guest noted, "The broth was the surprising highlight," while others appreciate the friendly staff pacing the pour. Seating is snug and the room can be quite dark, but the vibe is relaxed neighborhood energy. The cooking leans elevated traditional: tidy kaisendon layered with salmon, tuna, and friends, then finished with a rich, shiitake-forward dashi. It is less about theatrics and more about clean flavors, balanced textures, and a two-course feel from one bowl. Unadon is a sleeper hit when you want something warm and sweet-savory, while the hamachi with sesame sauce divides opinion. If you prefer pure sashimi, ask to keep the broth on the side so the fish stays raw. For families, the food itself is approachable—eel over rice, simple bowls, and sides mean kids can find comforting options. That said, the space is tight with mainly counter seating and dim lighting, so strollers and high-energy littles may find it less practical. Kids who like rice bowls or eel will do well here; picky eaters might stick to rice, egg, or wakame salad.
At a Glance
- Fresh fish bowls with fun hot dashi finish
- Strong value for NYC given quality and portions
- Tight, dim space with limited table seating
- Occasional service and reservation handling hiccups
- Ask for broth on the side if you want to keep fish raw
What Sets It Apart
- two_ways_kaisendon_with_hot_dashi
- cozy_counter_experience
- value_kai_don_pricing_for_UES
What People Love
- That rich, comforting dashi pour mid-meal
- Clean-tasting fish and beautiful bowl presentation
- Kind, attentive staff who guide the experience
- Neighborhood pricing that feels fair for the UES
Points of Concern
- Space is cramped and dim; seating can be uncomfortable for some
- A few reports of blandness or heavy sesame sauce on hamachi
- Reservation/waitlist confusion and early closures noted by some diners
- If broth is poured over fish, it may cook it and change texture
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-47 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pick Medium Fresh From The Sea ($25) for best value; add a $4-6 side like ikura or yellowtail
- Choose Unadon ($22) if you prefer cooked, saucy comfort over raw fish
- If sensitive to sesame, request hamachi without sauce or skip that side
Perfect For
- A quick solo lunch at the counter
- A casual date that loves Japanese bowls
- A neighborhood dinner when you want comfort and freshness
- A warming meal on a cold or rainy day
Location Insights
Area: Residential UES block with steady neighborhood foot traffic; casual, local-focused dining mix.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit Upper East Side corridor with consistent evening activity.
Nearby: Near Second Avenue subway, apartments, boutiques, and other Japanese casual spots.
YorkvilleYorkville offers a more relaxed and residential feel compared to the busier parts of the Upper East Side, with a variety of casual and mid-range dining options alongside some upscale restaurants. The area is known for its safe streets, local shops, and a community-oriented atmosphere, attracting diners looking for neighborhood spots rather than tourist-heavy venues.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Tuesday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Wednesday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Thursday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Friday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Saturday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Sunday11:30–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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